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Concealing data in a digital image with multilayer security

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Abstract

In this paper, a new type of algorithm is proposed in which steganography is combined with cryptography for concealing secret data in a digital image with multilayer security. A flexible matrix is used in combination with Pythagorean Theorem to develop a novel symmetric key to add a double layer of security to the secret data. Third layer of security to the data is added using a modified form of moderate significant bit alteration technique. In addition to this, pixel adjustment process is also improved upon to improve the visual perception of stego-imagesubstantially. In order to examine the visual perception of the stego-image qualitatively, histogram analysis is carried out. Image-quality-metrics are also estimated in order to evaluate the quality of the stego-images quantitatively. Moreover, in order to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, T-test is applied at 1 % level of significance. It has been validated experimentally that the proposed algorithm provides higher security as well as robustness to the attacks on the stego-image. The results of this study are, in fact, quite promising.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Yadavindra College of Engineering, Punjabi University, Guru Kashi Campus, Talwandi Sabo-151302, District, Bathinda, Punjab, India

    Jindal Balkrishan

  2. SantLongowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, DeemedUniversity, Longowal-148106, District, Sangrur, Punjab, India

    Amar Partap Singh

Authors
  1. Jindal Balkrishan
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  2. Amar Partap Singh
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Correspondence to Jindal Balkrishan.

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Balkrishan, J., Singh, A.P. Concealing data in a digital image with multilayer security. Multimed Tools Appl 75, 7045–7063 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11042-015-2631-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11042-015-2631-4

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